Under the ban, only products which have a better, non-plastic alternative will be banned. Products which have a certain degree of plastic content - for instance tea bags or wet wipes - are to be sold with signs to inform consumers.

Despite criticism that the move may have negative economic consequences, the EU Commission has emphasised the long-term benefits of the ban.

The EU Commission believes the ban could halt environmental damage which could save up to €22 billion by 2030, with consumers saving €6.5 billion.

The EU has taken on a bigger role with regard to environmental protection in recent years. In addition to cutting down on waste, the EU has sought to encourage member states to reach EU-set emissions targets through investing in renewable energy and electric-powered transport.